Disney Set to Make Major Change to Iconic 50-Year-Old Attraction
The upcoming change marks an exciting new chapter in the ride's half-century-long history.
parade.comShort answer: Yes. The Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom is undergoing a major refurbishment in 2026–2027, including an all-new decades sequence and a new Walt Disney audio-animatronic, with the attraction reopening in 2027.
Details and context
- What’s changing: Disney and affiliated outlets have announced a comprehensive overhaul that reimagines every scene, adds a Walt Disney audio-animatronic figure, and introduces new decades beyond the original storyline. This marks the most significant update to the ride since it debuted, effectively remodeling the entire show while preserving the classic concept.[3][4][6]
- Timeline: The current version is slated to close on July 5, 2026, with the attraction remaining closed for refurbishment through 2027, reopening later that year as the new version debuts in time for Disney World’s ongoing 60th anniversary era.[1][4][5]
- Why it matters: The update honors Walt Disney’s legacy by incorporating a new animatronic figure of Walt and expanding the storytelling across updated decades, signaling a renewed emphasis on innovation and nostalgia for guests.[6][9][3]
What to expect when visiting
- Experience scope: Expect a completely refreshed set of scenes with new period aesthetics, updated technologies, and new introductory moments featuring Walt Disney himself, followed by revised vignettes that continue the family’s story through additional decades.[1][3][6]
- Closure impact: With the ride closed for most of 2026 and into 2027, plan alternatives for your Magic Kingdom day during the refurbishment window, especially if you hoped to ride Carousel of Progress in its current form.[4][5]
Illustration
- Example: An overview timeline would look like: current ride -> closure July 5, 2026 -> refurbishment through 2027 -> reopening as the all-new version with Walt animatronic and expanded decades.[5][4][1]
Citations
- News and announcements about major refurbishment and Walt Disney figure inclusion:.[3][4][6]
- Closure dates and reopening window:.[4][5][1]